Nigerian Fela Sowande's African Suite (three selections) from 1930,
scored for string orchestra and harp, incorporates traditional Nigerian
melodies and the influence of Ghanian composer Ephiraim Amu. The
suite's first movement, aptly named "Joyful Day", is lovely and
energetic, with a big-hearted opening that brings to mind Copland's
Appalachian Spring from 1944. Sowande was also an accomplished
organist, schooled in the works of Bach and Handel, which perhaps
accounts for the fugal orchestral writing in the "Nostalgia" movement.
The delectable, folkloric movement titled "Akinla" adapts a melody from
West African "highlife", a spirited dance style that mixes African,
Caribbean, and Western sonorities.
To purchase the CD or download this performance, click here.
Cedille Records is the recording label of The Chicago Classical Recording Foundation, a publicly-supported, not-for-profit, organization devoted to promoting the finest musicians, ensembles, and composers in the Chicago area by producing and releasing their efforts on audiophile-quality recordings. The recordings and their promotion are designed to stimulate interest in these performers and composers and bring their artistry to a wider audience. Cedille Records is also dedicated to promoting interest in neglected areas of the classical repertory by presenting masterpieces that have been overlooked by other recording companies.
Classical Music | Orchestral Music
Fela Sowande
African Suite Play
Recorded on 05/24/2009, uploaded on 03/24/2009
Musician's or Publisher's Notes
Nigerian Fela Sowande's African Suite (three selections) from 1930, scored for string orchestra and harp, incorporates traditional Nigerian melodies and the influence of Ghanian composer Ephiraim Amu. The suite's first movement, aptly named "Joyful Day", is lovely and energetic, with a big-hearted opening that brings to mind Copland's Appalachian Spring from 1944. Sowande was also an accomplished organist, schooled in the works of Bach and Handel, which perhaps accounts for the fugal orchestral writing in the "Nostalgia" movement. The delectable, folkloric movement titled "Akinla" adapts a melody from West African "highlife", a spirited dance style that mixes African, Caribbean, and Western sonorities.
Performances by same musician(s)
Piano Concerto in E-flat Major, Op. 32
Symphony No. 1, "Afro-American"
Lyric for Strings
Symphony in D Major
Vorisek: Mass in B-Flat
Danse Nègre from African Suite
Classical Music for the Internet Era™
To purchase the CD or download this performance, click here.
Cedille Records is the recording label of The Chicago Classical Recording Foundation, a publicly-supported, not-for-profit, organization devoted to promoting the finest musicians, ensembles, and composers in the Chicago area by producing and releasing their efforts on audiophile-quality recordings. The recordings and their promotion are designed to stimulate interest in these performers and composers and bring their artistry to a wider audience. Cedille Records is also dedicated to promoting interest in neglected areas of the classical repertory by presenting masterpieces that have been overlooked by other recording companies.